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AI Will Transform Social Good for Generations, Says Cisco India MD Harish Krishnan at AI Impact Summit 2026

Artificial intelligence is poised to reform social good for generations while strengthening essential human capabilities, according to Harish Krishnan, Managing Director, Cisco Systems India.

Speaking at the India AI Impact Summit 2026 on the theme “Democratising AI Resources for Economic Growth and Social Good,” Krishnan said AI is not a replacement for human skills but a powerful enabler. “The skills that matter most are human skills,” he noted, adding that AI agents are increasingly augmenting human potential across sectors.

Krishnan emphasised collaboration between industry and government to ensure AI is deployed responsibly and securely. He said Cisco’s approach aligns technological innovation with public interest, focusing on secure frameworks and inclusive outcomes.

AI in Agriculture and Governance

Highlighting practical applications, Krishnan cited the ‘Krishi Mangal’ programme as an example of AI-driven social impact. The initiative, powered by sovereign AI and available in multiple languages, supports farmers with actionable insights. According to Krishnan, the programme currently works with around 44,000 women farmers, helping boost incomes and improve livelihoods.

Beyond agriculture, he pointed to AI’s growing use in governance and public safety. From improving administrative efficiency to enhancing vigilance systems in correctional facilities such as Tihar prison, AI is being leveraged to strengthen oversight and operational effectiveness.

“AI lifts everyone up and reforms social good for generations to come,” he said, underscoring its long-term societal impact.

Global Focus on Inclusive AI

The summit, being held in New Delhi from February 16 to 20, brings together global leaders, policymakers, technology companies and innovators to discuss AI’s transformative potential across governance, innovation and sustainable development.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate the India AI Impact Expo 2026 at Bharat Mandapam. The gathering marks a significant milestone as the first major global AI summit hosted in the Global South, reflecting India’s ambition to shape an AI future that is inclusive, responsible and development-oriented.

Deliberations at the summit are structured around key themes including human capital, inclusion, safe and trusted AI, innovation, resilience and economic development, positioning AI as a catalyst for broad-based growth and social empowerment.